---
title: "5 Ways to Tell If Your Children are Ready for a Puppy"
id: "202649"
type: "post"
slug: "5-ways-to-tell-if-your-children-are-ready-for-a-puppy"
published_at: "2018-01-29T17:36:58+00:00"
modified_at: "2018-01-29T17:36:58+00:00"
url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2018/01/29/5-ways-to-tell-if-your-children-are-ready-for-a-puppy/"
markdown_url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2018/01/29/5-ways-to-tell-if-your-children-are-ready-for-a-puppy.md"
excerpt: "Every child dreams of having a pet puppy, but as parents, it’s difficult to know when the time is right to bring a puppy home. With busy schedules and after-school activities, adding a puppy to the mix may seem like..."
taxonomy_category:
  - "Tips &amp; Tricks"
---

[Home](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/)
 / [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/blog/)
 / [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/)
 / **5 Ways to Tell If Your Children are Ready for a Puppy**

[Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/)

# 5 Ways to Tell If Your Children are Ready for a Puppy

January 29, 2018 ·  3 min read ·  [Carley Kuehner](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/author/cosmick/)

[Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com)

## **Every child dreams of having a pet puppy, but as parents, it’s difficult to know when the time is right to bring a puppy home.**

With busy schedules and after-school activities, adding a puppy to the mix may seem like a bit much. At Petland, we understand that puppies require love and attention, so we want to help your family make this big decision. Here are five ways to tell your children are ready for you to [buy a puppy](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/)
.

### **Your family has discussed the decision together.**

A family pet is a family decision. Everyone needs to be onboard with having a puppy, because the responsibility of taking care of the puppy will be shared. Sit down as a family and allow everyone to share how they feel about having a puppy. Be sure to discuss the responsibilities as well, which includes feeding, walking, cleaning, and most importantly loving the puppy.

If your family is planning on buying a puppy, take a Saturday trip to Petland and meet the puppies and friendly staff. Let the kids have time to interact with the in-store puppies, and ask any questions you may have about pet ownership.

### **Your children are communicating an interest in animals.**

As your children grow, they will begin to understand the world and gain a sense of empathy. When your children begin to express an interest in the well being of animals, they are ready to learn the responsibilities of pet ownership.

Enjoying this read? You'll love our puppies.

Adorable, vet-checked pups looking for their forever homes — available now.

[Meet our puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/)
The routine tasks such as feeding, walking, and bathing a puppy will come in handy later in life. At Petland, we believe that the children of today are the pet owners of tomorrow.

### **Your children’s playmates have pets.**

If your children’s friends all have pets, your children can greatly benefit from the shared experience of pet ownership. Children learn through relating, so your children should not be the only ones without a pet.

### **Your children are spending too much time with technology.**

While technology is a great tool for communication and efficiency, today’s children get far too much exposure to computers, tablets, and cell phones. Increased technology use usually results in a sedentary lifestyle. Having a puppy encourages children to put the phone down and get outside to play.

### **Your children are excelling in school.**

If your children are excelling in school, what better way to reward them than a surprise trip to Petland to buy a puppy! Good grades deserve creative rewards and your children will be thrilled when they visit Petland and interact with the wide selection of puppies.

[Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com)

Available Now## If you loved this, you'll *love our puppies*

Meet the happy, healthy pups ready to join your family today — browse the whole litter below.

[Browse all puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/)

- Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11185](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/cocker-spaniel-11185/) ### [Cocker Spaniel](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11184](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/cocker-spaniel-11184/) ### [Cocker Spaniel](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11183](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/aussiepoo-11183/) ### [Aussiepoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11182](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/aussiepoo-11182/) ### [Aussiepoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11181](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11181/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11180](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11180/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Sale Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11179](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cavapoo/cavapoo-11179/) ### [Cavapoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cavapoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11177](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/french-bulldog-11177/) ### [French Bulldog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11178](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/french-bulldog-11178/) ### [French Bulldog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11176](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11176/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11175](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11175/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234)
- Petland Leon Valley ## [Female #8223](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/papillon/papillon-8223/) ### [Papillon](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/papillon/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 688-7387](tel:(210)%20688-7387)

Loading more pets…

You've reached the end.

Still looking?### We can find you the perfect pet.

Tell our pet counselors what you're looking for: breed, gender, color, anything. No extra cost, no obligation.

[Start a Special Order](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/special-orders/)

#### **Related** Articles

[View All Articles](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/blog/)

- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [What Should You Know Before Bringing Home a Dachshund?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/) In this articleQuick Answer / SummaryIntroductionWhat Makes Dachshunds Such Special Companions?How Much Exercise and Training Does a Dachshund Need?What Health Considerations Should… November 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Understanding Puppy Body Language: What Your Pup Is Telling You](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/) In this articleHow can you tell when your puppy is relaxed?What does a puppy’s playful body language look like?How can you recognize… October 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [The First 5 Commands Every Puppy Should Learn](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/) Bringing home a puppy is one of life’s happiest moments. The toys are ready. The bed is set up. The photos have… September 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Finding the Perfect Puppy: A Breed Comparison Guide](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/) In this articleStart with Your Lifestyle, Not Just LooksMeet Five Popular Breeds and Their Best MatchPetland Helps Beyond Puppy DayYour Perfect Match… August 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Your Dog’s Summer Job Would Definitely Be…](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/) In this articleDifferent Breeds, Different Summer CareersWhy Understanding Personality MattersThe Best Summer Job of All? Being Your DogSummer is officially here. The… June 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Pet Store](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/pet-store/) · [Petcare](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petcare/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) · [Veterinary](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/veterinary/) ## [Myth Busting: Why Petland is a Good Choice When Bringing a Puppy Home](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/) In this articleWhy Where Your Puppy Comes From Truly MattersLet’s Talk About the Concerns You May Have HeardWhat Makes Petland a Trusted… May 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Petcare](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petcare/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) · [Veterinary](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/veterinary/) ## [AKC Registration With Health Testing: What Every Future Puppy Parent Should Know](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/) In this articleWhat Is AKC Registration?What Is Health Testing?How AKC Registration and Health Testing Work TogetherHow Petland Supports Responsible BreedingHelping Families Find… April 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Spring Fever, Fur Real: What Happens to Your Dog’s Personality When Winter Ends?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/) dog behavior changes in spring March 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [The Ethical And Welfare Implications Of Buying From Petland Explained](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/) Bringing home a puppy is a big, emotional decision. And if you’ve ever paused and thought, “Am I making the right ethical… January 1, 2026
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Where Does Petland Get Their Puppies: The Truth Behind The Tails](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/) In this article1. trusted licensed-licensed breeders and distributors2. Hobby breeders3. Local adoption partnersWhat This Means for YouLocking eyes with a puppy is… September 4, 2025
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Steps to Introducing Your Pet to a Newborn](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/) Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to… May 7, 2020
- [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Should My Dog Be Eating Grass?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/) Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma.… April 29, 2020

```
         Petland Leon Valley   758 Google reviews   Write a review                 Posted on Google        Karina R     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad got my Malti-poo from this store 6yrs ago when I was a teen. We bought him at 3mo old! He was a happy puppy. My family requested to play with him in the little cubicles and we were delighted. He was a little pricey, but he had his papers, proper shots/vaccines, and had an underbite that made him adorable. He’s doing well even today! Never gotten injured or sick. He’s expected to live the normal expectancy of a malti-poo.
I don’t remember much about the store or any changes since then, but I remember that the lady helping us was nice!
Here is Marshmallow!         Posted on Google        Charles B     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lots of dogs for adoption, well taken care of. Also have some birds, rabbits and a few sleepy ferrits. I stopped in for some feeder fish. Very nice staff.         Posted on Google        Joshua B     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Loved the exotic birds         Posted on Google        Melinda R     Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my 2nd time back. My daughter has been wanting another set of guinea pigs. I saw the most beautiful lionhead rabbit 🐇 about 7 weeks. LORENZO educated me on their demeanor, foods etc... I was there a good while, he showed no signs of rushing me, or pushing a sale. Answered all my questions and even educated me on ferrets as i asked lol he loves his job & wish all associates were like this everywhere! I was very pleased 😀 didn't grab the rabbit as my daughter took forever to answer me, but we're leaving for vacation and would not be cool to leave him alone . We will be back! And I will only ask for him! Thank you for the great customer service!              
```
